“A time is coming…when you will be scattered, each to your own home. You will leave me all alone. Yet I am not alone, for My Father is with Me.” – John 16:32 (NIV)
Brethren, persecution will come, but as believers, we should remain faithful, knowing this is all part of God’s plan and His will. Rather than reading in panic or being doubtful followers of Christ, we should feel a sense of peace (John 14:27).
In John 13, Peter, without fully understanding, declared he would follow Christ anywhere, even to his own death. Jesus responded by letting Peter know he would not remain loyal until sunrise when that time arose. Peter was zealous until he realised the huge responsibility as a follower of Christ.
The prophets already foretold that the Shepherd would be struck and the sheep of the flock would be scattered (Zechariah 13:7). Jesus is the Good Shepherd who would gave His life for His sheep (John 10:1-15). The Lord directed that His Shepherd (Jesus) be put to death (Matthew 20:17-19).
Yes, it was the Lord’s will to crush Him and cause Him to suffer for our sin, though He knew no sin. He wants to redeem us (Ephesians 1:7). Jesus was handed over to the authorities by God’s deliberate plan and foreknowledge and, with the help of wicked men, put to death. But in reality, He laid His life down.
So, everything that happened to Jesus was not a surprise. It was God’s plan to save mankind from sin. Betrayal of a friend after eating with them is called treacherous behavior, but God knew Judas would do that because it was written in God’s plan for Jesus. Thank You, Lord, for Your Salvation plan.
Prayer
Lord, we thank You for today. We desire to draw closer to You daily, Holy One. We are not perfect, but through You, we strive for perfection. You gave us Your Son, Jesus Christ, as a ransom for sin; even though He knew no sin, He paid the ultimate price for us. So, we thank You for Your unconditional love. We bless Your name, not only for what You do for us but because of who You are. We will always seek You daily and put You first. In Jesus’ name. Amen.
Read: Psalm 32:8; Mark 14:27
Bible Reading Guide: Proverbs 3:1-10; Matthew 16:21-28; Matthew 17:1-13; Genesis 47:13-31; Genesis 48
